Diphenylpropylamines to treat depression

ABSTRACT

1,1-DIPHENYL-2-HYDROXY-3-AMINOPROPANE DERIVATIVES ARE USEFUL FOR THEIR PSYCHOTROPIC ACTIVITY AND, IN PARTICULAR ARE USEFUL AS ANTIDEPRESSANTS.

CROSS REFERENCE

This is a division of Ser. No. 443,021 filed Feb. 15, 1974, now U.S. 4,028,415.

The present invention relates to derivatives of 1,1-diphenyl-2-hydroxy-3-aminopropane which possess useful psychotropic activity and which in particular, have mood modifying activity such as mood elevating activity.

Compounds of the formula (I): ##STR1## wherein A₁ and A₂ are halogen or hydrogen atoms or lower alkyl or alkoxyl groups; A₃ and A₄ are hydrogen atoms or methyl groups or together with the nitrogen atom to which they are attached form a 5- or 6- membered rings; and B - D is a --CH₂.CH₂ -- or --C:CH-- group; were shown by Jones et al [J. Med. Chem., 14, 161 (1971)] to possess psychotropic activity. In that same paper, it was suggested that compounds of the formula (II): ##STR2## could be used as intermediates in the synthesis of compounds of the formula (I) but it was not suggested that the compounds of formula (II) might have psychotropic activity. This may well have been because such compounds were structurally further removed from the amitriptylene type structure that the compounds of formula (I) were alleged to possess.

However, U.K. Pat. No. 1,025,051 and its Patent of Addition No. 1,039,454 discloses that certain of the compounds of the formula (II) and related butylamines have anticonvulsant, antidepressant and diuretic activity. One particularly active compounds prepared in the Patent Addition was 1:1-diphenyl-3-dimethylaminopopan-1-ol and its activity was further demonstrated by Barron et al [J. Pharm. Pharmacol., 17, 509 (1965)]. The authors confirmed that the compound had considerable effects on the central nervous system but their results show that the compound also suffered from side effects such as anorexia, diuresis, ataxia and drowsiness. These effects were so high that the investigation of the compound was discontinued.

U.K. Pat. No. 624,118 suggested that certain of the compounds of formula (II) might possess bronchodilating properties. Such a suggestion was not unreasonable as benzylic alcohols frequently have pharmacological activity and especially bronchodilatory activity. However, compounds of formula (II) have not found use as bronchodilators.

It was suggested by Lutz et al [J. Org. Chem., 12, 767 (1949)] that compounds of formula (II) might have antimalarial activity but no activity of clinical significance has been reported. Greenhill [J. Chem. Soc. (C), 1298 (1970)] disclosed a series of compounds which contain an alkanolic hydroxyl group in addition to or in place of the benzylic hydroxyl group. The author had hoped that such compounds might possess pharmacologically useful activity because they had some relationship to the benzylic alcohol Benzhexol which was said to possess anti-Parkinson activity. However, the author was forced to report that although the compounds had been pharmacologically tested, "no marked activity had been discovered".

As may be seen in the foregoing section, certain diphenylpropylamine derivatives have previously been examined in a search for therapeutic agents but to date none have found a place in medicine. It is thus surprising that one group of such compounds have now been found to possess useful mood modifying activity. It has further been found that this group of compounds is able to produce a mood elevating effect while being free or substantially free of peripheral anti-cholinergic activity. The useful compounds may be administered in the form of an orally or parenterally administrable pharmaceutical composition.

One of the objects of this invention is to provide pharmaceutical compositions which on administration to mammals are capable of producing a psychotropic effect and in particular, produce a mood elevating effect without causing substantial side effects such as those associated with anti-cholinergic agents.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition which comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier in association with a compound of the formula (III): ##STR3## wherein R₁ is hydrogen atom or a group R₉ or CO.R₉ wherein R₉ is a C₁₋₆ alkyl phenyl or benzyl group or such a group ω-substituted by a group NR₁₀ R₁₁ where R₁₀ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl, ethyl or benzyl group and R₁₁ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or ethyl group or is attached to R₁₀ so that NR₁₀ R₁₁ is a pyrrolidyl, piperidyl, morpholino or hexamethylenimino group; R₂ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or ethyl group; R₃ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl ethyl propyl or benzyl group; R₄ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or ethyl group or is attached to R₃ so that NR₃ R₄ is a pyrrolidyl, piperidyl, morpholino, N-methylpiperazino or hexamethylenimino group R₅ is a hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, benzyl, trifluoromethyl, hydroxy, methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, benzyloxy acetoxy, propionoxy, amino, methylamino, ethylamino dimethylamino, diethylamino, carboxyl, methoxycarbonyl ethoxycarbonyl, propoxycarbonyl, nitro or methylthiol group R₆, R₇ and R₈ which may be the same or different are each a hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a methyl, ethyl, methoxy, ethoxy, acetoxy, hydroxy or trifluoromethyl group; or a salt or solvate thereof.

Acid salts of compounds of formula (III) include those of pharmaceutically acceptable organic or inorganic acids such as sulphuric, hydrochloric, hydrobromic, phosphoric, acetic, propionic citric, malonic, malic, lactic, methanesulfphonic toluenesulphonic, tartaric or any similar acid.

Solvates if formed, are normally and preferably hydrates

Most suitably R₁ is a hydrogen atom or a group CO.R₉ where the most suitable groups R₉ are the methyl, ethyl, CH₂ CH₂ NR₁₀ R₁₁ or CH₂ CH₂ CH₂ NR₁₀ R₁₁ groups where R₁₀ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or ethyl group and R₁₁ is a methyl or ethyl group or NR₁₀ R₁₁ is a piperidyl group.

Preferably R₁ is a hydrogen atom.

Most suitably R₂ is a hydrogen atom or methyl group.

Preferably R₂ is a hydrogen atom.

Most suitably R₃ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or benzyl group; R₄ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl or ethyl group.

Preferably R₃ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group.

Preferably R₄ is a methyl group.

Most suitably R₅ is a hydrogen fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a methyl, ethyl, trifluoromethyl, methoxy, ethoxy, acetoxy nitro, amino, methylamino or dimethylamino group.

Most suitably R₆, R₇ and R₈ are selected from hydrogen, fluorine chlorine or bromine atoms or methyl, methoxyl or trifluoromethyl groups.

Certain preferred compositions of this invention contain a compound of the formula (IV). ##STR4## wherein R₁₂ is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group and R₁₃ R₁₄ R₁₅ and R₁₆ which may be the same or different are each a hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a methyl trifluoromethyl or methoxyl group or a salt thereof or O-acetyl derivative thereof.

Most suitably R₁₃ is a hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a methyl or trifluoromethyl group.

Most suitably R₁₄ is a hydrogen, chlorine or bromine atom.

Preferably R₁₄ is a hydrogen atom.

Most suitably R₁₅ is a hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine or bromine atom or a trifluoromethyl group.

Preferably R₁₅ is a hydrogen, fluorine or chlorine atom and most preferably, a hydrogen atom.

Most suitably R₁₆ is a hydrogen atom. Compounds of formula (IV) of particularly useful activity are included among those compounds wherein R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are each hydrogen atoms and R₁₃ is a hydrogen, fluorine, bromine or chlorine atom or a trifluoromethyl group.

Preferred compounds for inclusion within the compositions of this invention include those of formula (IV) wherein R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are each hydrogen atoms and R₁₃ is a hydrogen, 4-fluorine, 3- or 4-chlorine, 3-bromine atom or a 3-trifluoromethyl group.

The compounds of formula (III) have a center of assymetry at the 2-carbon atom and those compounds in which the two phenyl grings are differently substituted have a further centre of assymetry at the 1-carbon atom. A pure optical isomer may be used in the compositions of this invention if desired or else mixtures of isomers may be used. Fully racemic mixtures have the advantage of ease of preparation but individual isomers or pairs of enantiomers can have certain differences in activity and rate of onset of action that makes their use in the compositions of the invention beneficial.

The compounds of formula (III) may advantageously be included in the solid composition of the invention in the form of a crystalline acid addition salt.

The compositions of the invention are specially useful in treating adverse mental states such as, for example, depressive conditions. For such treatment, the compounds aere generally administered orally although parenteral methods of administration may also be used.

Typical oral formulations will include tablets, pills, capsules, sachets, granules, powders, chewing gum, suspensions, emulsions and solutions particularly preferred oral formulations are tablets and capsules. Where appropriate, the formulations may include conventional diluents, binding agents, dispersing agents, surface-active agents, lubricating agents, coating materials, flavouring agents, coloring agents, solvents, thickening agents, suspending agents, sweeteners or any other pharmaceutically acceptable additives, for example, gelatin, lactose, starch, talc, magnesium stearate, hydrogenated oils, polyglycols and syrups. Where the formulations are tablets or capsules and the like, they will represent pre-measured unit doses but in the case of granules, powders, suspensions and the like, the formulations may be presented as pre-measured unit doses or in multi-dose containers from which the appropriate unit dose may be withdrawn.

Injectable compositions may be as aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, suspensions or emulsions in a pharmaceutically acceptable liquid (e.g. sterile pyrogen-free water or parenterally acceptable oils) or mixtures of liquids which may contain bacteriostatic agents, antioxidants or other preservatives, buffers, (preferably in the physiological pH range of 6.5 - 7.0), solutes to render the solution isotonic with the blood, thickening agents, suspending agents or other pharmaceutically acceptable additives. Such forms will be presented in unit dose forms such as ampoules or disposable injection devices or in multi-dose forms such as a bottle from which the appropriate dose may be withdrawn, or as a solid form or concentrate which can be used to quickly prepare an injectable formulation.

Suppositories containing the compound will also contain suitable carriers (e.g. cocoa-butter or polyglycols).

In general, the compositions of the invention will usually have associated with them, directions for use as anti-depressive medications.

Preferred dosage forms of the composition will be conventional tablets or capsules containing a pre-measured dose for oral administration. Such dosage forms will normally contain between 1 and 100 mgs. of compound of formula (III) and generally between 2.5 and 75 mgs. preferably from about 5 to about 50 mgs. Such dosage forms will normally be taken from 1 to 6 times daily. The maximum daily dose for a 70 kg. adult will not normally exceed 360 mgs. and will not usually exceed 250 mgs. A daily dose of not more than 150 mgs. is generally preferred. Normally, the daily dose for a 70 kg. adult will be at least 2.5 mgs., usually at least 5 mgs.

The compositions of the invention may be prepared by conventional methods of mixing, blending, tabletting and the like.

Compounds of formula (III) are novel except those wherein R₂, R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are all hydrogen atoms and either (a) R₁ is a hydrogen atom and NR₃ R₄ is a dimethylamino, diethylamino or morpholino group or (b) R₁ is an acetyl group and NR₃ R₄ is a dimethylamino group. Such novel compounds and their salts form a part of this invention.

The most suitable and preferred values for R₁ - R₈ of these new compounds are the same as those stated as suitable and preferable in association with the compounds of formula (III).

A preferred group of novel compounds of the invention are those of formula (IV) as previously defined except that R₁₂ is not methyl when R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are all hydrogen.

The most suitable and preferred values in the compounds for R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ of these novel compounds are as previously defined.

As previously stated, compounds of formula (III) can exist as pure optical isomers or mixtures of isomers. When a compound of formula (III) exists as an optical isomer, substantially free of alternative optical isomers, it is novel and forms part of this invention. Further, if the compounds of formula (III) are capable of existing as a mixture of four optical isomers, this invention includes each optical isomer in substantially pure form or mixtures of two or three such isomers.

The present invention includes as one of its aspects, a process for the preparation of compounds of formula (III) as hereinbefore defined except that when R₂, R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are all hydrogen and either (a) R₁ is a hydrogen atom and NR₃ R₄ is a dimethylamino, diethylamino or morpholino group, or (b) R₁ is an acetyl group and NR₃ R₄ is a dimethylamino group; which process comprises the condensation of an amine of the formula HNR₃ R₄ with a compound of the formula (V): ##STR5## or a salt thereof wherein R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are as defined in relation to formula (III), Y is a group displaceable by a neucleophile and X is a group CR₂ OR₁ or a suitable precursor thereof; and thereafter if desired, converting any of the groups R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆, R₇, and R₈ to alternative groups R₁, R₂, R₃, R₄, R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ by known methods and if X is a precursor of CR₂ OR₁, converting X to CR₂ OR₁ by known methods.

Suitable groups Y include chlorine, bromine or iodine atoms, pseudohalides such as azide activated oxygen atoms such as one present in an epoxide or present in reactive esters such as methylsulphonyl or toluene sulphonyl esters or reactive derivatives formed from a hydroxyl group and a dehydrating agent such as a carbodiimide or imidazolediimide or the like, or any other such known good leaving groups.

If Y is a particularly good leaving group such as an iodine atom or that produced by the reaction of a compound wherein Y is hydroxyl with a carbodiimide, it is preferable that X is not a CR₂ OH group in order that self-condensation is minimized.

Suitable groups X which are precursors of the groups CR₂ OR₁ include the carbonyl group and groups CR₂ OR¹ and CR₂ OCOR¹ where R¹ is an inert optionally substituted hydrocarbon group such that intermediate is hydrolysable or reduceable to the alcohol. When X is a carbonyl group reduction to the alcohol may take place under conventional conditions.

If desired, the group Y may be linked to the group X so that XCH₂ Y is a ##STR6## group.

Suitable transformations of groups R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ include reduction and alkylative reduction of nitro groups to amino or alkylamino groups; saponification of esters, hydrogenolysis of benzyl ethers and the like.

The group OR₁ may be converted from a hydroxyl group to an ether or acyloxy group by conventional methods and the group OR₁ may be converted from an ether or acyloxy group to hydroxyl group by conventional methods of hydrolysis or hydrogenolysis or the like.

If desired, the groups R₃ and R₄ may be modified in conventional manner, for example, a primary amino group NH₂ or a secondary amino group, for example, NHR₃, may be alkylated or acylated in conventional manner or a compound in which one or two of R₃ and R₄ are already acyl groups may be converted to the amine by conventional methods.

Compounds which may be produced by such processes include:

3-(N-Benzyl-N-methylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol)

3-Methylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-(N-Benzyl-N-methylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Methylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-(N-Benzyl-N-methylamino)-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Methylamino-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1,1-di-p-fluorophenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-o-tolyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-p-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-m-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol

3-(N-Benzyl-N-methylamino)-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-2-ol

3-Methylamino-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-m-trifluoromethylphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-p-methoxyphenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-o-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-m-bromophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-N-methyl-N-ethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-N-piperidino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

2-Benzoyloxy-3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propane

3-Benzylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

4-Dimethylaminobutyrate of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-(3,5-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-m-nitrophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-p-bromophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1-p-trifluoromethyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol-2-β-dimethylaminopropionate

A particularly suitable method of preparation of compounds of formula (IV) as previously defined comprises the reaction of a compound of the formula (VI): ##STR7##

With methylamine or dimethylamine or reacting with benzylmethylamine and thereafter removing the benzyl group by hydrogenation.

Reactions strictly analogous to this are suitable for the preparation of other compounds of formula (III) wherein CR₂ OR₁ is a CHOH group.

Such a reaction is normally carried out in an organic solvent such as a lower alkanol, for example, ethanol.

The reaction may be carried out at any non-extreme low, ambient or elevated temperature but a temperature of -10° C to 110° C is generally preferred, for example, 5° C to 60° C, for example, at room temperature (12° - 18° C).

The epoxide of formula (VI) may be prepared by the reaction of an aldehyde of the formula (VII); ##STR8## wherein R₅, R₆, R₇ and R₈ are as defined in relation to formula (IV) with O ═ S(CH₃)₂ ═ CH₂ or (CH₃)₂ S ═ CH₂.

This reaction may take place under the conditions outlined in Fieser & Fieser, "Reagents for Organic Synthesis", published by Wiley, 1967, at pages 314 to 318.

The compounds (VII) may be prepared by the method of Wittig, et al, Chem. Ber., 94, 1373 (1961) or Mislow et al, J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 74, 1060 (1952).

A process for the preparation of the aldehydes of formula (VII) comprises the contacting of an epoxide of the formula (VIII): ##STR9## wherein R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are as defined in relation to formula (VII) with boron trifluoride etherate or equivalent Lewis acid.

Such a reaction will take place in an inert solvent system, for example, benzene. Although any non-extreme temperature may be used, it is generally preferred to use an ambient temperature as the reaction goes to completion in a few minutes under these convenient conditions.

Only a catalytic quantity of the Lewis acid need be used.

The epoxides of formula (VIII) may be prepared from the corresponding benzophenone by reaction with O ═ S(CH₃)₂ ═ CH₂ or (CH₃)₂ S ═ CH₂ under conventional reaction conditions.

The useful intermediates (VII) and (VIII) when novel, also form part of this invention.

A further particularly suitable method of preparing compounds of formula (IV) comprises the reduction of a compound of the formula (IX): ##STR10## wherein R₁₂, R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅, and R₁₆ are as defined in relation to formula (IV) except that R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are not all hydrogen when R₁₂ is a methyl group.

Reactions strictly analogous to this are suitable for the preparation of other compounds of formula (III) where CR₂ OR₁ is a CHOH group.

Such a reaction may be effected by conventional means, for example, by the use of hydrogen and a transition metal catalyst or by the action of a complex hydride such as sodium borohydride or the like. The reactions are normally carried out in an organic solvent such as an alkanol, for example, methanol or ethanol. Such reactions are normally carried out at any non-extreme low ambient or elevated temperature but a temperature of -10° C to 110° C is generally preferred, for example, 5° C to 60° C, for example at room temperature (12°-18° C).

The amine (IX) may be prepared by the reaction of dimethylamine or benzylmethylamine with a compound of the formula (X): ##STR11## wherein Y is as previously defined in relation to formula (V) and R₁₃, R₁₄, R₁₅ and R₁₆ are as defined in relation to formula (IX) and when benzylmethylamine is used cleaving the benzyl group by hydrogenation.

Such a reaction is normally carried out in an organic solvent at a non-extreme temperature.

The compounds of formula (X) wherein Y is a halogen atom may be prepared from the corresponding methyl ketone by the method of Stevens et al [J. Org Chem. 19, 538 (1954)] or analogous methods. Other compounds of formula (X) may be prepared from the bromo- or chloro-ketone in conventional manner.

The novel intermediates (IX) also form an aspect of this invention.

Compounds of formula (IV) may also be prepared by reductive alkylation of a corresponding N-desmethyl compound for example, by reducing a mixture of formaldehyde and an amine of formula (IV) wherein R₁₂ is hydrogen or the corresponding primary amine.

Compounds of formula (IV) wherein R₁₂ is a hydrogen atom may also be prepared by the catalytic hydrogenation of the corresponding benzylamine.

Compounds of the formula (II) in which X is a CHOCOR₉ group may be prepared by reaction of a compound of the formula (II) in which X is CHOH and Y is a displaceable group with a reactive ocvlating derivative of an acid of the formula HO.CO.R₉ or salt thereof in conventional manner followed by reaction with an amine of the formula HR₃ R₄. Alternatively such compounds may be prepared by the acylation of an acid addition salt of the corresponding compound wherein X is CHOH.

In addition to being useful pharmaceutical agents in their own right, the compounds of formula (III) when prepared as a mixture of optical isomers, also serve as useful intermediates in the preparation of their substantially pure optical isomers or optically active mixture of such isomers.

Compounds of the formula (III) may normally be resolved by conventional techniques used by those skilled in such work. For example, they teach useful methods of resolution.

Compounds of the formula (IV) wherein the two optionally substituted phenyl groups are the same can be resolved into d- and l-forms by the use of an appropriate resolving agent such as an optically active acid. Alternatively, compounds of formula (IV) wherein the two optically substituted phenyl groups are different may be separated into erythro and threo forms by, for example, fractional crystallisation of a salt. Resolution of erythro and threo forms into d- and l- isomers could then be achieved by the use of an appropriate resolving agent.

Particularly suitable resolving acids include (+)-mandelic and (-)-mandelic acid.

EXAMPLE 1 3-(N-Benzyl N-methylamino)-1-1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

Benzylmethylamine (97g.) was added to a solution of 3-bromo-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-one (3 9g) in ether (80 ml.) and the mixture stirred for 4 hours. Extraction with dilute hydrochloric acid followed by basification and subsequent extraction into ether gave an oil which was chromatographed on silica gel (400g.). Elution with progressively graded mixtures of light petroleum and ether gave 3-(N-benzyl-N-methylamino)-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-one characterised as the hydrochloride (3 8g., 85%), m.p. 179° - 183° (from ethanol-ether).

Sodium borohydride (1 2g.) in water (15 ml.) was added to a solution of 3-N-benzyl-N-methylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol hydrochloride (3 8g.) in methanol (80 ml.) and the mixture stirred for 1 hour. Concentrated hydrochloric acid (4 ml.) was then added and the solution evaporated under reduced pressure. The residue was dissolved in water; the aqueous solution was washed with ether, basified and extracted into ether. 3-(N-Benzyl-N-methylamino)-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol was obtained which was characterised as the hydrochloride (3 1g., 80%) m.p. 158°-161° (from ethanol-ether).

EXAMPLE 2 3-Methylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

A solution of 3-N-benzyl-N-methylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol hydrochloride (2g.) in ethanol (50 ml.) was hydrogenated at atmospheric pressure and room temperature over 5% palladium on charcoal (200 mg.) for 24 hours.

Filtration and evaporation gave 3-methylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (1.1g., 75%) m.p. 187° - 188° (from ethanol-ether).

EXAMPLE 3 3-(N-Benzyl,N-methylamino)-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenylpropan-2-ol

Bromine (14 85g.) in acetic acid (200 ml.) was added dropwise to a solution of 1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenylpropan-2-one (20 1g.) in acetic acid (200 ml.) at 60° - 70°. After 30 minutes, the reaction mixture was poured on to ice. Isolation through ether in the usual manner gave crude 3-bromo-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-one (28g.) which was converted by the procedures described in Example 1 to 3-(N-Benzyl,N-methylamino)-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol (38%), m.p. 61° - 62°.

EXAMPLE 4 3-Methylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

Hydrogenation of 3-(N-benzyl,N-methylamino)-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol by the procedure described in Example 2 gave 3-methylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (70%) as a glass.

EXAMPLE 5 3-Dimethylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

Dimethylamine in ethanol (30 ml s of 33% solution) was added to a solution of 3-bromo-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenylpropan-2-one (13g.) in dry ether. After 45 minutes, the reaction mixture was extracted with dilute hydrochloric acid and ether. Basification of the acid extract and subsequent isolation through ether in the usual manner gave 3-dimethylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-one isolated as the hydrochloride (5 8g., 53%), m.p. 210° - 220°.

Reduction with sodium borohydride by the procedure described in Example 1 followed by chromatography on alumina using progressively graded mixtures of light petroleum and ether as eluant gave 3-dimethylamino-1-p-fluorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol (76%), m.p. 55° - 57°.

EXAMPLE 6 3-(N-Benzyl N-methylamino)-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

3-(N-Benzyl N-methylamino)-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-one (10g.) in dry ether (250 ml.) was added to a solution of methyl magnesium iodide (from 2.4 g. magnesium and 14 2g. methyl iodide) in dry ether (250 ml.) and the mixture heated at reflux for 2 hours. Saturated ammonium chloride solution was added; isolation through ether in the usual manner gave 3-(N-benzyl,N-methylamino)-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol, purified by chromatography on alumina using progressively graded mixtures of light petroleum and ether as eluant and isolated as the hydrochloride (6 8g., 65%), m.p. 121° - 124° (from ethanol-ether)

EXAMPLE 7 3-(N-methylamino)-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

Hydrogenation of 3-(N-benzyl, N-methylamino)-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol by the procedure described in Example 2 gave 3-methylamino-2-methyl-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (79%), m.p. 272° - 273°

EXAMPLE 8 3-Dimethylamino-1,1-di-4-fluorophenyl-propan-2-ol

Phenyl lithium (20 ml. of 1M solution in ether) was added under nitrogen to a stirred suspension of methoxymethyltriphenylphosphonium chloride (6 88g.) in dry ether. After 10 minutes, 4,4-difluorobenzophenone (4.56g.) in dry ether was added. After a further 2 hours, triphenylphosphine oxide was filtered off and the filtrate evaporated. The residue was chromatographed on alumina to yield 1,1-di-4-fluorophenyl-2-methoxy-ethylene (3g., 59%) which was dissolved in a solution of 10% sulphuric acid in acetic acid (50ml.) and allowed to stand for 30 minutes. Isolation through ether in the usual manner yielded 1,1-di-4-fluorophenylacetaldehyde which was purified by chromatography on silica gel (2 2g., 78%).

1,1-Di-4-fluorophenylacetaldehyde (2.2g.) in dimethyl sulphoxide (10 ml.) was added under nitrogen to a solution of dimethylsulphoxonium methylide (prepared from 2.5g. trimethylsulphoxonium iodide and 450 mg. of 60% sodium hydride in 20 ml. of dimethylsulphoxide) and the mixture heated at 50° for one hour. Isolation through ether yielded crude epoxide which was dissolved in a solution of dimethylamine in ethanol (10 mls. of 33% solution) and allowed to stand for 24 hours. Evaporation of solvent and extraction of the residue with dilute acid allowed the isolation of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-di-(4-fluorophenyl)-propan-2-ol (1 4g. 55%), m.p. 56°- 58° purified by chromatography on alumina.

EXAMPLE 9 3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-o-tolyl-propan-2-ol

1-Phenyl-1-o-tolyl-acetaldehyde was reacted with dimethylsulphoxonium methylide and the crude epoxide obtained reacted with dimethylamine by the procedures described in Example 5. 3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-o-propan-2-ol was isolated as the hydrochloride, m.p. 218° - 219° (58%).

EXAMPLE 10 3-Dimethylamino-1-p-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

p-Chlorobenzophenone (8 65g.) in dimethylsulphoxide (15ml.) was added under nitrogen to a solution of dimethylsulphoxanium methylide (from 10.55 g. of trimethylsulphoxonium iodide and 1.15g. of sodium hydride) and the mixture heated at 50° for 2 hours. Isolation through ether yielded crude 1 2-epoxy-1-p-chlorophenyl-1-phenylethone (9.0g.).

Borontrifluoride etherate (5 drops) was added to a solution of the crude epoxide (9.0g.) in dry benzene (250 ml.). After 5 minutes water was added and the benzene layer washed with water until no longer acidic. Evaporation of solvent gave an oil which was chromatographed on silica gel; elution with progressively graded mixtures of light petroleum and ether yielded p-chlorophenyl-phenylacetaldehyde (5.68g. 62%) as an oil.

p-Chlorophenyl-phenylacetaldehyde (5.68 g.) was reacted with dimethylsulphoxonium methylide and the crude epoxide obtained further reacted with dimethylamine in ethanol by the procedures described in Example 8 to give 3-dimethylamino-1-p-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol (2.6g., 37% from aldehyde) as an oil.

EXAMPLE 11 3-Dimethylamino-1-m-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert m-chlorobenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1-m-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (24%), m.p. 118° - 123° (from ethanol-ether). No intermediates were purified.

EXAMPLE 12 3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1p-tolyl-propan-2-ol

Following the procedures described in Examples 3 and 5, 1-phenyl 1p-tolyl-propan-2-one was converted to 3-dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol (30%), m.p. 55° - 58° .

EXAMPLE 13 3-(N-Benzyl N-methylamino)-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol

Following the procedures described in Examples 3 and 1, 1-phenyl,1-p-tolyl-propan-2-one was converted to 3-(N-benzyl N-methylamino)-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol (25%) obtained as an oil EXAMPLE 14

3-N-methylamino-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol

Hydrogenation of 3-(N-Benzyl N-methylamino)-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol by the procedures described in Example 4 gave 3-N-methylamino-1-phenyl-1-p-tolyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride Recrystallisation from ethanol-ether gave two crops m.p. 186° -188° (35%) and m.p. 150° - 152° (36%).

EXAMPLE 15 3-Dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-m-trifluoromethylphenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert m-trifuloromethylbenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1-phenyl-1-m-trifluoromethylphenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (5%), m.p. 110° - 113°

EXAMPLE 16 3-Dimethylamino-1-p-methoxyphenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert p-methoxybenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1-p-methoxyphenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (13%) as a glass.

EXAMPLE 17 3-Dimethylamino-1o-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert o-chlorobenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1o-chlorophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (34%), m.p. 216° - 218° (from ethanol-ether)

EXAMPLE 18 3-Dimethylamino-1-m-bromophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert m-bromobenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1-m-bromophenyl-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (22%), m.p. 128° - 138° (from ethanol-ether)

EXAMPLE 19 3-Dimethylamino-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol

An identical sequence of reactions to those described in Example 10 was used to convert 3,4-dichlorobenzophenone to 3-dimethylamino-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the hydrochloride (3%) as a glass.

EXAMPLE 20 3-(N-Methyl-N-ethylamino)-1 1-diphenyl-propan-2-o-

Sodium borohydride (1 52g) in sodium hydroxide solution (15 ml 0.02M) was added to 1,1-diphenyl-3-bromo-propan-2one (12g) in methanol (50 ml) and the solution was stirred for one hour. Isolation through ether in the susual manner afforded 1,1-diphenyl-3-bromo-propan-2-ol (10 4g 86%) as an oil

Excess N methyl-N-ethylamine was added to a solution of 1 1-diphenyl-3-bromo-propan-2ol (2g) in ethanol. After 60 hours the solution was evaporated and the residue dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and ether. Basification of the acid extract and subsequent isolation through ether in the usual manner gave 3-(N-methyl-N-ethylamino)-1 1-diphenyl-propan-2ol isolated as the hydrochloride (1 25g, 60%), m.p. 159° - 161°

EXAMPLE 21 3-N-Piperidino-1 1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

Diphenylacetaldehyde was converted to 1,1-diphenyl-2,3-epoxy-propan (90%) using dimethylsulphoxinium methylide by the procedure described in Example 8 Further reaction of the epoxide with piperidine, also as described in Example 8 gave 3-N-piperidino-1,1 -diphenyl-propan-2ol isolated as the hydrochloride (57%), m.p. 194° - 196°

EXAMPLE 22 2-Benzoyloxy-3-dimethylamino-1 1-diphenyl-propane

Benzoyl chloride (1 49g.) was added to 3-dimethylamino-1,1 -diphenyl-propan-2ol (2.55g.) in dry pyridine (10 ml.) and the solution allowed to stand for 4 hours. Pyridine was removed by evaporation and the residue dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and ether. Basification of the acid extract and isolation through ether in the usual manner gave 2-benzoyloxy-3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propane (3.47 g. 99%), m.p. 90° - 91°

EXAMPLE 23 3-Benzylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

1 1-Diphenyl-2 3-epoxy-propane, prepared as described in Example 21 was reacted with benzylamine in ethanol by a procedure analogous to that described in Example 8, 3-benzylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol (33%), m.p. 123° - 124° was obtained.

EXAMPLE 24 3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

(a) 2-Acetoxy-3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propane (200mg) was dissolved in methanolic potassium hydroxide (5% 10 ml) and the solution allowed to stand overnight Solvent was evaporated and the residue dissolved in ether and water. The ether extract was dried and evaporated to give 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol (170 mg, 97%), m.p. 72° - 73°

(b) 1,1-Diphenyl-3-bromopropan-2-ol (500mg.) prepared as described in Example 20 was treated with excess dimethylamine in ethanol and the solution allowed to stand overnight. Solvent was removed by evaporation and the residue dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and ether. Basification of the acid extract and isolation through ether in the usual manner gave 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol (330mg, 75%) m.p. 72° - 73°

(c) 1,1-Diphenyl-2,3-epoxy-propane prepared as described in Example 21, was further reacted with dimethylamine in ethanol by the procedure described in Example 8 to give 3-dimethylamino-1 1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol (90%) m.p. 72° - 73°

EXAMPLE 25 4-Diethylaminobutyrate of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

A solution of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol (2 55g) 4-diethylaminobutyric acid hydrochloride (1 95g.) and dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (2.1g.) in dichloromethane (50 ml) was stirred at room temperature for 5 days Dicyclohexylurea was filtered off and the filtrate concentrated. The residue was dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and ether. The acid extract was basified; isolation through ether in the normal manner gave an oil which was chromatographed as alumina (200g.). Elution with progressively graded mixtures of light petroleum and ether gave the 4-diethylaminobutyrate of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol isolated as the dihydrochloride (41%) as a glass

EXAMPLE 26 (-)-3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

Equimolar quantities of 3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol and D(-)-mandelic acid were dissolved in ethyl acetate and the solution evaporated. The resulting mandelate was recrystallised 5 times from ethyl acetate using 30-35 mls of ethyl acetate per gram of mandelate, the melting point rising from 140° - 143° to a constant 153° - 154° . Regeneration of the free base gave (-)-3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol, m.p. 61° - 62°, [α]_(D) ²⁰ 56° (c 1.6 in EtOH) converted to the hydrobromide, m.p. 184° - 185°

EXAMPLE 27 (+)-3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol

The mother liquors from the preparation of the (-) isomer in Example 25 were combined and evaporated. The free base enriched in (+)isomer, was regenerated in the usual manner Equimolar quantities of free base and D(+)-mandelic acid were dissolved in ethyl acetate and the solution evaporated. The resulting mandelate was recrystallised 4 times from ethyl acetate using 30-35 mls. of ethyl acetate per gram of mandelate, the melting point rising to a constant 153° - 154° . Regeneration of the free base gave (+)-3-dimethylamino-1,1-diphenyl-propan-2-ol, m.p. 60° - 61°, [α]_(D) ²⁰ + 56° (c 1.6 in EtOH) converted to the hydrobromide, m.p. 184° - 185°

EXAMPLE - PHARMACOLOGY 1 (a) Tests Used 1 Prevention of Reserpine Hyopothermia for Potential Antidepressant

The method of Spencer [Antidepressant Drugs, 194 (1967) ] was used. Groups of ten mice are given oral doses of test compound 24 18 and 2 hours before an intravenous injection of reserpine base (Serpasil). Oral temperatures of the mice are taken immediately before administration of reserpine and then 2 4 6 and 24 hours afterwards.

Mean temperatures of groups given test compounds are compared with reserpinised controls using a Students t test. Compounds causing a significant difference at the level P < 0.001 are considered active. In order to quantify anti-reserpine activity cumulative temperature differences from controls at 6 hours and 24 hours (Δ⁶ and Δ²⁴ ) are calculated. Thus, the larger the figure for Δ⁶ and Δ²⁴ the more active the compound Δ⁶ should be at least 5° C for the compound to be considered active and at least 8° C to have a highly acceptable level of activity.

2 Reversal of Reserpine Hypothermia

Groups of ten mice are injected intravenously with 1.5 mg/kg Reserpine base. Seventeen hours later the oral temperatures of the mice are taken and various doses of test compound or vehicle given subcutaneously. Temperatures are taken 1, 2, 4 6 and 24 hours later and the results are analysed as in Test 1 (The subcutaneous route is used for convenience as the very depressed reserpinised mice cannot be reliably dosed orally).

3 Inhibition of Noradrenaline and 5-Hydroxytryptramine Uptake in vitro

Synaptosomes are isolated from the brains of male Wistar rats (150-170g.) and monamine uptake determined by the method of Snyder and Coyle (1968) [Synder S. H. and Coyle J. T. J. Pharmac. exp. Ther. 165 (1968) 78-86]. Uptake was determined over a ten minute period instead of the normal five minutes.

4 Mydriatic Response in Mice

Groups of five mice are pre-selected for uniformity of pupil diameter using a binocular microscope with a calibrated eye-piece. Pupil sizes are measured at various intervals after an intraperitoneal injection of test compound and at the peak time a curve plotted of percentage increase in pupil diameter versus log dose. From this the dose causing a 200% increase in pupil size (this lies on the linear part of the curve) is found

(Anticholingeric compounds cause an increase in pupil diameter (mydriasis) thus the higher the dose quoted, the lower the probable side effect).

5 PA₂ Determination on Guinea Pig Ileum

This experiment measures in vitro antagonism to Acetylcholine (a possible side effect) and the lower the pA₂ the more desirable the compound. pA_(x) is defined as the negative logarithum base 10 of the molar concentration of antagonist which will reduce the effect of a multiple dose (X) of an active drug to that of a single dose. It is thus a means of expressing anticholinergic activity which is independent of the dose of Acetylcholine and the piece of tissue used.

The method used is similar to that of Schild, [Brit. J. Pharmacol. 14 (1959) 48] the tissue being bathed in Tyrode solution and a dose response curved for Acetylcholine being obtained. This dose response curve is repeated in the presence of various doses of test compound and the pA₂ is found from a plot of (log dose ratio-1) against molar concentration of the test compound.

6 Animals and Solutions

Carworth Europe male mice are used for all experiments apart from that using the cat nictitating membrane and test compounds are administered orally as solutions in distilled water. Compounds for intravenous administration are dissolved in 0.9% saline apart from Reserpine which is dissolved in dilute acetic acid buffered to pH5. Unless otherwise stated, the dosing interval is one hour.

(b) Results 1 Prevention of Reserpine Hypothermia

Compounds of the formulae E1 and E2: ##STR12##

    (Ph).sub.2 CH -- CA.sub.10 OA.sub.11 -- CH.sub.2 -- A.sub.12 -- HCl (E2)

and the standard compounds Imiprimine and Amitryptyline were tested as described in al. The results are shown in Tables 1 and 2.

                                      TABLE 1                                      __________________________________________________________________________                              Reserpine Prevention                                                           Test                                                  A.sub.5                                                                              A.sub.6                                                                            A.sub.7                                                                            A.sub.8                                                                           A.sub.9                                                                            Salt                                                                               Dose mg/kg                                                                            Δ.sup.6 (° C)                                                          Δ.sup.24 (° C)               __________________________________________________________________________     CH.sub.3                                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  H   HBr 20     13    19                                       CH.sub.2 C.sub.6 H.sub.5                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  H   HCl 30     10    11                                       CH.sub.2 C.sub.6 H.sub.5                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  F       30      9    11                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  F       20     11    15                                       H     CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  F       30     12    21                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   H  Cl      30     13    22                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           H   Cl H   HCl 20     10    17                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             CH.sub.3                                                                           CH.sub.3                                                                           H  H   HCl 30     11    14                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             H   H   H  CH.sub.3                                                                           HCl 100     6     6                                       C.sub.2 H.sub.5                                                                      C.sub.2 H.sub.5                                                                    H   H  H   HCl 30     11    11                                       CH.sub.3                                                                             H   H   H  H   HCl 20     >10   >10                                      __________________________________________________________________________

                                      TABLE 2                                      __________________________________________________________________________                       Reserpine Prevention                                                           Test                                                         A.sub.10                                                                           A.sub.11                                                                            A.sub.12 Dose mg/kg                                                                            Δ.sup.6 (° C)                                                           Δ.sup.24 (° C)                     __________________________________________________________________________     CH.sub.3                                                                           H    NHCH.sub.3                                                                              30     7     13                                              CH.sub.3                                                                           H    N(CH.sub.3)CH.sub.2 C.sub.6 H.sub.5                                                     100    6      8                                              H   H    morpholino                                                                              100    10    10                                              H   H    piperidine                                                                              100    9     10                                              H   COCH.sub.3                                                                          N(CH.sub.3).sub.2                                                                       20     >10   >10                                             Imiprimine hydrochloride                                                                         30     10    17                                              Amitriptyline hydrochloride                                                                      30     12    22                                              __________________________________________________________________________

2 Reversal of Reserpine Hypothermia

Using the test described in a2, the following results were found for certain compounds of formula E1:

                  TABLE 3                                                          ______________________________________                                                        Reserpine Reversal Test                                         A.sub.5                                                                             A.sub.6                                                                               A.sub.7                                                                              A.sub.8                                                                            A.sub.9                                                                            Salt Dose mg/kg                                                                              Δ.sup.6 (° C)                                                           Δ.sup.24 (°         ______________________________________                                                                                       C)                               CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   H   HBr  20       14    22                               CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   F   HCl  25       17    23                               CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   Cl       30        9    11                               Imipramine    HCl    10         18    18                                       ______________________________________                                    

3 Inhibition of Noradrenaline and 5-Hydroxytryptamine

Using the test described in a3, the following results were found for certain compounds of formula E1:

                  TABLE 4                                                          ______________________________________                                                        Inhibition of Monoamine                                                        Uptake                                                                                         Molar      NA   5HT                             A.sub.5                                                                             A.sub.6                                                                               A.sub.7                                                                              A.sub.8                                                                            A.sub.9                                                                            Salt Concentration                                                                             (%)  (%)                             ______________________________________                                         H    CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   H   HCl  10.sup.-5  85                                                                  10.sup.-6  65                                   CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   F        10.sup.-5  80   85                                                             10.sup.-6  59   60                              Imipramine    HCl    10.sup.-5    85   90                                                           10.sup.-6    56   55                                      ______________________________________                                    

4 Mydriatic Response in Mice and pA₂ in Guinea Pigs

Compounds of the formula E1 were tested as described in a4 and a5 to provide the results shown in Table 5.

                  TABLE 5                                                          ______________________________________                                                        Anticholinergic Side                                                           Effect                                                                                         Mydriasis-Dose                                                                 to cause 200%                                                                              pA.sub.2 on                         A.sub.5                                                                             A.sub.6                                                                               A.sub.7                                                                              A.sub.8                                                                            A.sub.9                                                                            Salt effect-mg/kg                                                                               Iillium                             ______________________________________                                         CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   H   HBr  41          5                                   H    CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   H   HCl  114         5                                   CH.sub.3                                                                            H      H     H   F   HCl  92          4                                   CH.sub.3                                                                            CH.sub.3                                                                              H     H   Cl  HCl  40          5                                   Imipramine    HCl    18            9                                           Amitryptyline HCl    6             8                                           ______________________________________                                    

EXAMPLE - PHARMACOLOGY 2 (a) Tests Used

The Reserpine Prevention, Reserpine Reversal and Noradrenaline Uptake Inhibition tests were carried out as described in the previous Example. The Mydriasis tests was also as described in the previous Example but using 20 mg/kg doses of each compound after which a curve was plotted of percentage increase in pupil diameter vertus time and the percentage increase was integrated with respect to time for 0-120 minutes after dosing and the result expressed as a percentage.

(b) Results

(±) -3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol is Compound A

(± )-3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol is Compound B

(-)-3-Dimethylamino-1,1-diphenylpropan-2-ol is Compound C

    ______________________________________                                         Inhibiton of Noradrenaline                                                                           Mydriasis Integral                                       Uptake In Vitro       Percent 120 Mins.                                        Compound                                                                               Molar Conc.   %       Dose     %                                       ______________________________________                                         A       10.sup.-6     63      20mg/kg.  7400                                   B       10.sup.-6     40      20mg/kg. 12600                                   C       10.sup.-6     64      20mg/kg.  6700                                   ______________________________________                                    

    ______________________________________                                                  Reserpine Prevention                                                                        Reserpine Reversal                                       Compound                                                                               Dose   Δ.sup.6 (° C)                                                              Δ.sup.24 (° C)                                                            Δ.sup.6 (° C)                                                            Δ.sup.24 (° C)             ______________________________________                                         A       10     12       16      16     20                                              20     15       19      14     17                                              40     15       22      15     20                                      B       10     12       15      16     27                                              20     16       23      15     19                                              40     16       25      13     19                                      C       10     11       17       6      3                                              20     13       19      16     19                                              40     12       19      13     20                                      ______________________________________                                    

These results indicate that the (-)-isomer shows fewer peripheral anticholinergic effects than the (+)-isomer and that (+)-isomer is more active than the (-)-isomer on the Reserpine Reversal Test at low doses but that the two isomers have roughly equal effects on the Reserpine Prevention tests. 

What we claim is:
 1. A pharmaceutical composition useful for treating depression in humans which comprises an anti-depressantly effective amount of a compound of the formula ##STR13## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof, wherein R₁ is CO.R₉ wherein R₉ is alkyl of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, phenyl or benzyl; R₂ is hydrogen; R₃ is hydrogen or methyl; R₄ is methyl; R₅ is fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, ethyl, methoxy, ethoxy, trifluoromethyl, acetoxy, nitro, amino, methylamino or dimethylamino; and R₆, R₇ and R₈ are each hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, methoxy or trifluoromethyl; in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 2. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₆, R₇ and R₈ are each hydrogen.
 3. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, ethyl, methoxy, ethoxy or trifluoromethyl.
 4. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is hydrogen.
 5. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is trifluoromethyl.
 6. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₉ is alkyl of 1 to 6 carbon atoms.
 7. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₉ is methyl or ethyl.
 8. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₉ is methyl.
 9. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is hydrogen and R₉ is methyl.
 10. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is 4-fluorine and R₉ is methyl.
 11. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is 3-chlorine and R₉ is methyl.
 12. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is 4-chlorine and R₉ is methyl.
 13. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is 3-bromine and R₉ is methyl.
 14. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein R₅ is 3-trifluoromethyl and R₉ is methyl.
 15. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein the compound is 3-dimethylamino-1-(3-chlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol.
 16. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein the compound is 3-dimethylamino-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol.
 17. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein the compound is in the form of a single diastereoisomer.
 18. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein the compound is in the form of a pure optical isomer.
 19. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 wherein the compound is in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt selected from the group consisting of the sulphate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, phosphate, acetate, propionate, citrate, malonate, maleate, lactate, methanesulphonate, toluenesulphonate and tartrate.
 20. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 in oral administration form.
 21. A pharmaceutical composition according to claim 1 in parenteral administration form.
 22. A method of treating depression in humans which comprises administering to a human in need thereof an anti-depressantly effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition which comprises an anti-depressantly effective amount of a compound of the formula ##STR14## or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or hydrate thereof, wherein R₁ is CO.R₉ wherein R₉ is alkyl of 1 to 6 carbon atoms, phenyl or benzyl; R₂ is hydrogen; R₃ is hydrogen or methyl; R₄ is methyl; R₅ is hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, ethyl, methoxy, ethoxy, trifluoromethyl, acetoxy, nitro, amino, methylamino or dimethylamino; and R₆, R₇ and R₈ are each hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, methoxy or trifluoromethyl; in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 23. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₆, R₇ and R₈ are each hydrogen.
 24. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is hydrogen, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, methyl, ethyl, methoxy, ethoxy or trifluoromethyl.
 25. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is hydrogen.
 26. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is fluorine, chlorine or bromine.
 27. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is trifluoromethyl.
 28. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₉ is alkyl of 1 to 6 carbon atoms.
 29. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₉ is methyl or ethyl.
 30. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₉ is methyl.
 31. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is hydrogen and R₉ is methyl.
 32. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is 4-fluorine and R₉ is methyl.
 33. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is 3-chlorine and R₉ is methyl.
 34. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is 4-chlorine and R₉ is methyl.
 35. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is 3-bromine and R₉ is methyl.
 36. A method according to claim 22 wherein R₅ is 3-trifluoromethyl and R₉ is methyl.
 37. A method according to claim 22 wherein the compound is 3-dimethylamino-1-(3-chlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol.
 38. A method according to claim 22 wherein the compound is 3-dimethylamino-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-propan-2-ol.
 39. A method according to claim 22 wherein the compound is in the form of a single diastereoisomer.
 40. A method according to claim 22 wherein the compound is in the form of a pure optical isomer.
 41. A method according to claim 22 wherein the compound is in the form of a pharmaceutically acceptable salt selected from the group consisting of the sulphate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, phosphate, acetate, propionate, citrate, malenate, maleate, lactate, methanesulphonate, toluenesulphonate and tartrate.
 42. A method according to claim 22 wherein the administration is oral.
 43. A method according to claim 22 wherein the administration is parenteral. 